When it comes to energy efficiency, some of the most expensive problems are the ones you can’t see.
That’s where Entegrity’s building envelope team comes in. Our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools to uncover hidden sources of energy waste—long before they become costly issues for building owners.
What Is the Building Envelope—and Why Does It Matter?
The building envelope refers to the physical barrier between the interior and exterior of a structure: walls, windows, roof, foundation, and insulation. It’s the first line of defense against outdoor air, moisture, and temperature swings. When the envelope isn’t performing as designed, it can lead to increased utility costs, comfort complaints, poor indoor air quality, and even structural damage over time. Read more about the cost of inaction in our other blog.
In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates that air leakage can account for 25%–40% of the energy used for heating and cooling in a typical building.
Source: DOE Energy Saver – Air Sealing Your Home
How We Test for Energy Loss
Before ever stepping onsite, our team reviews design documents and performance data to identify red flags: wall assemblies that don’t match spec, unbalanced pressure zones, or materials that aren’t suited for the local climate. Then we perform a whole-building air leakage test—typically under ASTM E779 or USACE protocols—to quantify the building’s performance.
Our diagnostic toolkit includes:
- Infrared thermography to visualize temperature differentials and identify insulation gaps
- Smoke tracers to reveal pathways of air infiltration
- Moisture meters to detect potential water intrusion and condensation risks
- These methods help us translate invisible issues into clear, actionable results.
A Real-World Example: Two Buildings, One Pattern
We saw a common thread in recent projects with two mid-sized, mixed-use buildings. Both had previously operated without incident, but began struggling with comfort and moisture control after changes in occupancy.
In one case, an entertainment space was converted into a residence. The existing systems couldn’t keep up when a winter cold snap hit. Air infiltration testing helped us pinpoint where the envelope was falling short and prioritize upgrades.
In the second case, a historic home—renovated multiple times—started showing signs of persistent humidity and biological growth. Testing revealed that mechanical systems in an adjacent space were creating negative pressure, pulling humid outdoor air into the residence. Adjusting the HVAC settings and sealing key areas restored the indoor air balance and resolved the issue.
Why It Pays to Catch Problems Early
Testing the envelope isn’t just about code compliance—it’s about resilience. With many states now adopting stricter versions of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), the bar is higher than ever for new construction and major renovations.
Indoor air quality has also become a growing concern, especially in schools and commercial buildings. According to the CDC, poor ventilation and uncontrolled humidity can increase the risk of airborne illness and mold growth.
Source: CDC – Indoor Environmental Quality
Proactive testing helps building owners get ahead of these challenges—while also avoiding costly repairs and rework later on.
Invisible Doesn’t Mean Insignificant
Envelope failures don’t usually make headlines—but left unchecked, they silently erode a building’s performance, longevity, and occupant comfort. By listening to what a building’s systems are telling us, we help clients solve problems before they grow.
Ready to uncover what your building isn’t telling you?
Our team can help you identify and resolve hidden energy issues through expert envelope testing and diagnostics. Whether you’re planning a renovation, facing rising utility bills, or looking to meet evolving energy codes, we’ll guide you toward practical, data-backed solutions.
Contact us today to start the conversation.
